Iconic Charminar - Hyderabad Heritage Walk
Iconic Charminar - Hyderabad Heritage Walk

First Time Visiting Hyderabad? Your Ultimate Travel Guide

24, July 2014 felt like yesterday when I stepped foot in Hyderabad. Fresh out of college, I came to the city for my first job at Wipro in Gachibowli. I remember spending a few months at a PG in Gachibowli and reliving the on-your-own life again after my boarding school stint. Fast forward to today, it’s been a decade since I’ve stayed in Hyderabad, the longest in any city for my entire family – so that’s a first. 

Hyderabad has given me a lot of things, from my first job to a platform for Atulmaharaj the Food and Travel blogger to flourish. Over the years, I’ve explored Hyderabad like a local and I’m often a go-to person for food and travel recommendations for many when they are first time visiting Hyderabad.

With my Vegetarian’s Guide To Hyderabad already very popular, I decided to write my recommendations for everyone visiting Hyderabad for the first time in this post. The blog post will have three sections – places to eat, explore and shop – and most of these places are vetted by me. 

Let’s dive into the best places for first-time visitors to indulge, discover, and shop!

What to Eat, Explore, and Shop on Your First Time Visiting Hyderabad

I’ve always said that Hyderabad has something for everyone – from world-famous cuisine to rich cultural experiences and bustling markets. This ultimate travel guide will walk you through the must-visit spots to eat, explore, and shop, ensuring you get the best out of your first trip to Hyderabad. Whether you’re craving authentic biryani, eager to explore centuries-old architecture, or looking for unique souvenirs, Hyderabad will leave you enchanted. 

Vegetarian Food At Charminar
Vegetarian Food At Charminar

One thing though, I’m a vegetarian and a teetotaler. Having said that, I’ll mention places that serve good Hyderabad Biryani and booze, though I have not tasted it ever. So with that word of caution, let’s make your first visit to Hyderabad memorable.

Places To Eat In Hyderabad

Hyderabad is a culinary haven. On your first visit, be prepared to indulge in dishes that have won hearts globally, from the world-famous Hyderabadi biryani to local Andhra and Telangana food bursting with spices and aromas. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a quick snack from a street vendor, Hyderabad’s diverse food scene is sure to leave you craving more. Let’s explore some of the top places where you can enjoy the best of Hyderabad’s iconic cuisine!

Breakfast

Delicious Breakfast at Panchakattu Dosa - Idli, Dosa and Nannari
Delicious Breakfast at Panchakattu Dosa – Idli, Dosa and Nannari
  • Pragathi Tiffins: One of the iconic places in Abids known for its chutney. Try their Masala Dosa and Ganga Jamuna, I’m sure you’ll love it. Read my complete Pragathi Tiffins review.
  • Ram ki Bandi: Once iconic Ram ki Bandi (bandi = food cart in Telugu) is still a place to visit and try some street-style dosa. PS: I’ve been here only once since I moved to Hyderabad.
  • Govind Ki Bandi: Hyderabad’s very own street-style dosa with a spoon of Upma. Try Govind’s Tawa Idli and you’ll love it!
Ganga Jamuna & Idli Wada at Pragathi Tiffins
Ganga Jamuna & Idli Wada with delicious chutney
  • Rambharose Bhattad Idli: If you’re an Idli fan, you must try the Idli at Rambharose, the melt-in-mouth Idli and Ghee Podi Idli are super delicious.
  • Royal Tiffin Center: Another place where you must try Idli, soft and fluffy. Also, their Ghee Podi Idli is nice too.
  • Iyer Tiffin Center: I’ll call this a hidden gem that you must visit for their Idli and Vada breakfast. It’s a very small place, but the queues might tell you why they are famous!
  • Nimrah Cafe: Seen those photos of people drinking chai in front of Charminar? Well, it’s here at Nimrah Cafe. Opens at 4 in the morning, one of the best Irani Chai in Hyderabad. Read my complete Nimrah Cafe review.
Irani Chai and Osmania Biscuit at Nimrah Cafe.
Irani Chai and Osmania Biscuit at Nimrah Cafe.
  • Nayab: Want to start your with a meaty affair? Eat like a pakka Hyderabad at Nayab with some Nalli Nihari, Kheem Pav and a lot of exquisite dishes.
  • Ishtaa: The new favourite in town, a proper sit-down restaurant that serves pure vegetarian food. Try their Ghee Masala Dosa with a variety of chutneys. Read my complete Ishtaa review.
  • Chutneys: The OG eatery of Hyderabad known for the variety of Chutneys they serve, has a loyal fanbase and it might be difficult to secure a seat, with multiple outlets in the city.
  • Simply South: Another OG restaurant by celebrity Chef Chalapathi Rao, brings cuisines from across the southern states.
Bengaluru style breakfast at Taaza Kitchen
Bengaluru style breakfast at Taaza Kitchen

These were some of the must-try breakfast places in Hyderabad. Most of these places open quite early in the day, so if you’re coming early, you’ll get some food for sure. Further, these are like local favourites and mostly south Indian, I’ll have a list of cafes too in this post, where you can get continental and English breakfast if you prefer that.

Lunch/Dinner

Biryani

  • Bawarchi, RTC X Roads: They have no branches, this is the OG Biryani spot in Hyderabad. Famous for its signature Hyderabadi biryani.
  • Shadab: Known for its traditional mutton and chicken biryani, Shadab is a must-visit for an authentic Hyderabad dining experience
Special Chicken Biryani. Shah Ghouse Biryani
Special Chicken Biryani.
  • Shah Ghouse: This legendary spot offers richly flavoured biryanis with tender meat and an unforgettable dining atmosphere
  • Pista House: Renowned for its aromatic biryani and Hyderabadi haleem, this is a local favourite. Also has multiple branches.
  • Meridien: Serving a standout mutton dum biryani, Meridian is beloved for its flavorful Biryanis.
  • Lucky: A well-known eatery for its delicious and budget-friendly biryanis.
Growing Tribe of Veg Biryani
Growing Tribe of Veg Biryani
  • Cafe Bahar: Another well-known spot for biryani lovers, Cafe Bahar is known for its Chicken Dum Biryani and vibrant atmosphere
  • Sarvi: Offering traditional flavours with generous portions, Sarvi is famed for its rich, flavorful biryanis

PS: As mentioned earlier, I’ve been to some of these places and have Veg Biryani (yes Veg Biryani exists) but not a non-veg one. however, these are some of the top recommended Biryani places in Hyderabad by my meat-eating friends.

Regional

  • Harsha Delux Mess: A no-frills mess offering spicy, authentic Andhra meals with generous servings of pickles, chutneys, and curries.
  • Kakatiya Deluxe Mess: Famous for its non-veg fare and spicy Andhra dishes, particularly known for seafood fry and spicy chutneys.
  • Ishtaa: A modern, casual dining spot offering a variety of Telugu and South Indian vegetarian dishes in a more contemporary setting.
Unlimited South Indian thali at Ishtaa
Unlimited South Indian thali at Ishtaa
  • Itlu: A cozy eatery known for its traditional Telugu meals and snacks like dosa, idli, and pesarattu, with a twist of homemade flavours. Their lunch thali is also pretty good.
  • Vivaha Bhojanambu: This restaurant specializes in serving authentic Andhra and Rayalaseema cuisine with a focus on wedding-style feast spreads.
  • The Spicy Venue: Renowned for its Andhra meals, especially its Ulavacharu biryani, and famous for its lunch thalis and Apricot delight.
Mains & Desserts at Vivaha Bhonjnambu
Mains & Desserts at Vivaha Bhonjnambu
  • Hotel Abhiruchi: A traditional mess that provides affordable Andhra meals, known for its tangy and spicy chutneys, pickles, and pappu.
  • Subbaya Gari Hotel: Offers a wholesome Andhra thali experience, with simple, home-style meals full of flavours from the Telugu region.
  • Chutneys: Famous for serving a variety of dosas and chutneys, this vegetarian restaurant is a Hyderabad favourite for South Indian tiffins and their thalis.
Pure Vegetarian meals at Subbayya Gari Review
Pure Vegetarian meals at Subbayya Gari
  • Taj Mahal: A longstanding vegetarian restaurant offering classic South Indian meals, known for its quality and consistency.
  • Aidu: A fine-dining experience focusing on presenting traditional cuisine from Andhra, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala in a contemporary way.
  • AnTeRa: An authentic Andhra mess serving flavorful meals, particularly well-known for their pulaos and regional dishes. Not much variety for vegetarians.
Mains & Small Plates
Mains & Small Plates
  • Simply South: Celebrated for its traditional South Indian dishes from across the southern states, curated with a mix of heritage recipes.
  • Rayalaseema Ruchulu: Famous for its spicy Rayalaseema-style dishes, this restaurant is a go-to for those craving fiery Andhra flavours.
  • Telugu Medium: A chic eatery offering Telugu-inspired street food and fusion dishes, reimagining traditional flavours with a modern twist.
South Indian Thali at Simply South
South Indian Thali at Simply South

Note: Most places serve thali only for lunch, so please confirm with them before you visit.

North Indian/Multi Cuisine

  • Ohri’s Tansen – A luxurious dining experience blending Mughal-era ambience with North-Western Frontier cuisine. PS: it’s been a few months since I got a reservation, so please plan well.
  • Tatva – A contemporary space offering North Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine, famous for its elegant presentation​ and pure vegetarian affair.
Good Looking Til Tikki at Tatva
Kebabs at Tatva
  • United Kitchens Of India – An eclectic mix of regional dishes from across the country, served in a modern setting, one of my favourites.
  • Exotica – A rooftop restaurant with a stunning view of Hyderabad, offering Mughlai and Indian dishes. You cannot get wrong with this, a good experience.
  • Zila – A cosy restaurant offering a mix of Indian and Asian cuisines with a focus on progressive dishes with a lively ambience. Slightly on the expensive side, but worth it.
Kathal Tacos and Bhel2.0
Kathal Tacos and Bhel2.0
  • Gudgudee – An interactive dining space with comfort food and a relaxed vibe, great for groups​, a good vegetarian option.
  • Theth Masala – another family favourite, always loved the food here. Slightly noisy ambiance but we love going back here.

Fine dining

  • Once Upon A Time, Greenpark – A restaurant with nostalgic decor serving regal Indian flavours. They have a sampling menu that you MUST try.
  • Kangan, Westin – Elegant fine dining offering rich North Indian and Mughlai cuisine, my family favourite.
Delicious Mains at Once Upon A Time Hyderabad
Paneer Donut Makhni, Chur Chur Naan with Dal Makhni, Varqi Saag Paneer, Gobhi Kempu Bezule
  • Aish, The Park – A chic restaurant focusing on Hyderabadi and Deccan specialities with a modern twist. The Kathal Haleem is worth a try.
  • Food Exchange, Novotel – A stylish all-day diner with international and Indian fare, perfect for a luxurious meal.
Jackfruit Haleem and Veg Biryani at Aish. Best Veg Haleem In Hyderabad.
Jackfruit Haleem and Veg Biryani at Aish
  • Ohm, Avasa – A sophisticated restaurant with Pan-Asian delicacies and a serene atmosphere.
  • Dakshin, ITC Kakatiya – An upscale restaurant known for its authentic South Indian fare from different regions​.
Mains and dessert served at Ohm
Delicious mains and dessert served at Ohm

Cafes

  • Roast CCX – The biggest cafe in Hyderabad, love their cold brew shots and other coffee offerings. They also offer a free tour of their cafe, so make sure to take that. Read my complete review of Roast CCX.
  • Roast 24×7 – An all-day cafe offering coffee and quick bites in a laid-back setting, one of my favourites.
Coffees of a different league.
Coffees of a different league.
  • Roastery Coffee House – The OG Hyderabad cafe, that brought the artisanal coffee to the city. Popular for its artisanal coffee and spacious green outdoor seating.​
  • PS Cheese Cafe – A cheese lover’s paradise, serving cheesy delights and comfort food. They also have cheese-making classes on weekends.
Veg Cheese Platter & Pasta at PS Cheese Cafe
Veg Cheese Platter & Pasta
  • Last House Cafe – A hidden gem with an inviting atmosphere by the Durgam Cheruvu Lake, a perfect place to work from.
  • Feu – A chic, French-inspired cafe serving delightful pastries and light bites​. They have a Sakura drink, that I absolutely loved.
  • Katha – Known for its storytelling-inspired decor and artisanal coffee​.
  • True Black – A minimalist coffee shop that focuses on strong brews a calm environment​ and some delicious Hummus toast.
Speciality Coffee & Artisanal Blends
Speciality Coffee & Artisanal Blends
  • Heart Cup Coffee – A lively cafe known for its coffee, live performances, and open-air setup​.
  • Olive Bistro – A Mediterranean-inspired cafe with beautiful alfresco dining and picturesque views of the Durgam Cheruvu lake.
  • Aromale – A cozy, European-style bistro offering gourmet dishes in an intimate setting​.
  • Cravery – If you love Mac-&-Cheese, you have to visit Cravery, one of the best in the city.
  • Sage Farm Cafe: A popular Vegan eatery with a chic ambience along with some delicious food on offer – the humble Bissibelle bath and Ridge gourd pizza is worth a try.
  • Churrolto – a classic cafe popular for its churros and my favourite Paneer Sandwich and Caribbean rice.

Breweries / Lounge

  • Zero40 – A microbrewery with an array of craft beers and a lively, upbeat vibe​ located within a Mango orchard.
  • Red Rhino – A stylish brewery offering a variety of house-made brews and great food.
  • Prost – A popular microbrewery with unique craft beers and a rooftop setup.
Variety of mocktails at Zero40 Gachibowli
Variety of mocktails at Zero40 Gachibowli
  • Broadway – An upscale brewery offering craft beers and an international menu​.
  • Lord Of The Drinks – A trendy lounge bar known for its creative cocktails and electric atmosphere.
  • Forge Breu-hous – Known for its wide selection of craft brews and gourmet pub food.
  • IronHill – A spacious, vibrant brewery offering craft beers and international dishes​. Their Mushroom Stroganoff is one of my favourites.
Fancy drinks at Lord Of The Drinks, Hyderabad
Fancy cocktails and mocktails
  • Forefathers – A new brewery/lounge in town offering some good beers and bar food.
  • Elsewhere – A stylish, minimalistic lounge with a focus on signature drinks and great music
  • Xena – A lively bar with modern decor, known for its drinks and DJ nights. Love their Mushroom Bruschetta.
  • One8 Commune – Virat Kohli’s chic lounge bar opened recently in the city and is frequented for its signature cocktails and vibrant ambience. Soya Kheema Pav is my favourite here.
  • Anthm – a new cafe with a great setup and ambience along with good food and music.
Soya Boti Kebab and other starters.
Soya Boti Kebab and other starters.

Places To Shop In Hyderabad

For those visiting Hyderabad for the first time, the city offers a vibrant mix of traditional bazaars and modern malls that cater to every kind of shopper. From iconic pearls and handwoven fabrics to high-end luxury brands and local items, Hyderabad’s shopping experience is nothing short of exhilarating. Here are some places where you can indulge in some retail therapy.

  • Laad Bazaar: Located near Charminar, Laad Bazaar is famous for its stunning bangles, especially those encrusted with pearls and stones. It’s also a great place for traditional Hyderabadi jewellery, bridal accessories, and handicrafts.
  • Shilparamam, Hi-Tech City: An arts and crafts village located in the heart of Hi-Tech City, Shilparamam showcases handmade goods from local artisans, including traditional textiles, pottery, jewellery, and handicrafts. The perfect spot for culturally rich souvenirs.
  • Begum Bazaar: One of the oldest and largest commercial markets in Hyderabad, Begum Bazaar is known for wholesale goods. Here, you’ll find everything from household items to dry fruits, and it’s a great spot to hunt for bargains.
Sultan Bazaar - Book old/new market.
Sultan Bazaar – Book old/new market.
  • Koti Sultan Bazaar: A bustling area ideal for picking up trendy fashion accessories, streetwear, and a variety of fabrics. It’s popular with young shoppers and is a fun place to explore the local vibe.
  • Inorbit Mall, Madhapur: This sprawling mall in Madhapur offers a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options. With international brands, multiplexes, and fine-dining restaurants, it’s a one-stop destination for a complete day out.
  • GVK One Mall, Banjara Hills: A premium shopping destination, GVK One Mall boasts a mix of high-end international brands and Indian luxury stores. Its central location in Banjara Hills makes it an easy stop for shoppers looking for an upscale experience.
  • AMB Mall, Kondapur: One of the largest and the most popular malls in the area with a handful of stores, multiplex and a sprawling food court where it’s extremely difficult to find a place to sit.
  • Abids Street: Hyderabad’s shopping hub for books, Abids Street is famous for its weekend book bazaar. It’s a haven for book lovers, where you can find rare books, second-hand novels, and much more at great prices.
  • Moazzam Jahi Market: This historic market, recently restored, is known for its fresh fruits, especially its famous mangoes in the summer, and is an excellent place to purchase gourmet dry fruits and spices.
  • Ikea: One of the largest Ikea’s in India, this is must must-visit for everything home decor plus food 😉 PS: Unlimited refill of beverages!

Places To Explore in Hyderabad

From the stunning architecture of ancient forts and palaces to the bustling markets filled with local crafts, there’s something for every traveller. Iconic landmarks like the Charminar and Golconda Fort narrate tales of the city’s royal past, while serene spaces like Hussain Sagar and Durgam Cheruvu Lake provide perfect relaxation spots. This section highlights the must-visit places that capture the essence of Hyderabad, inviting you to immerse yourself in its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

  • Charminar: The iconic monument and symbol of Hyderabad, built in 1591, is a must-visit. Its vibrant surroundings are filled with local bazaars, perfect for a cultural dive into the city.
  • Golconda Fort: A historic citadel with grand architecture, this fort once protected the city and offers panoramic views of Hyderabad. The sound and light show held in the evening is a tourist favorite.
  • Ramoji Film City: One of the world’s largest film studios, Ramoji Film City is a major tourist attraction offering guided tours, amusement parks, and live performances. PS: this requires one full day.
Iconic Charminar - First time visiting Hyderabad
Iconic Charminar – Hyderabad Heritage Walk
  • Hussain Sagar Lake: Famous for its giant Buddha statue standing in the middle of the lake, it’s a popular spot for boat rides, evening strolls, and views of the city skyline.
  • Qutb Shahi Tombs: The royal tombs of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, set in beautifully landscaped gardens, are an architectural marvel and a significant part of Hyderabad’s history.
  • Salar Jung Museum: One of the largest museums in India, Salar Jung Museum holds an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and antiques from across the world, curated by the Salar Jung family.
  • Chowmahalla Palace: Once the seat of the Nizams, this stunning palace showcases the opulence of Hyderabad’s royal past, with its intricate halls, courtyards, and rich collections.
Ramoji Film City entrance.
Ramoji Film City entrance.
  • Mecca Masjid: One of the oldest and largest mosques in India, Mecca Masjid is an important religious site and an architectural gem, located close to Charminar.
  • Nehru Zoological Park: A sprawling zoo housing a wide variety of animals and birds, including endangered species. It’s a family-friendly spot ideal for a day out with nature.
  • Birla Mandir: A stunning Hindu temple made of white marble, perched atop Naubat Pahad, offering peaceful surroundings and beautiful views of the city.
  • Lumbini Park: A lush green park near Hussain Sagar Lake, known for its musical fountain shows, boating, and serene atmosphere.
  • KBR National Park: An urban sanctuary in the heart of the city, ideal for nature lovers and joggers. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna especially peacocks and is a peaceful escape from city life.
  • Statue of Equality: A recent addition to the city, and an hour’s drive is a massive statue of Ramanujacharya along with 108 Vishnu temples.
My honest experience of visiting the Statue of Equality
My honest experience of visiting the Statue of Equality

If you have time at hand and want to go on a road trip to explore nearby areas, read my guide on road trips from Hyderabad for a complete list of places to visit around Hyderabad.

So Plan Your First Trip To Hyderabad!

This is by far the most comprehensive guide to Hyderabad that I’ve written putting down places to eat, shop and explore along with Google Maps links so it is easy for you. While this guide highlights some of the best places to eat, shop, and explore, it’s important to note that this is just a glimpse into what Hyderabad has to offer. The city is brimming with more hidden gems, cultural experiences, and historical sites waiting to be discovered.

Whether you find yourself wandering through traditional markets, savouring the unique flavours of Hyderabadi cuisine, or soaking in the majestic architecture, there’s an abundance of adventures awaiting you in this remarkable city.

Go ahead and share this blog post with anyone planning their first trip to Hyderabad. And let me know your feedback and suggestions too. If you’ve got any queries or suggestions drop them in the comments below. You can also tweet to me at @Atulmaharaj or DM @Atulmaharaj on Instagram or Get In Touch.

About Atulmaharaj

A seasoned blogger and a content marketer for close to a decade now. I write about Food, Technology, Lifestyle, Travel, and Finance related posts. Blogging brings me joy and the best part is I get to read and e-meet so many amazing bloggers! PS: I'm also the founder for Socialmaharaj.com :) Favorite Quote: "Traveling is like reading a book, one who hasn't traveled, hasn't turned a page.

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